January is National Radon Action Month

INDIANAPOLIS — Government agencies are teaming up with environmental and health organizations throughout North America to promote radon awareness throughout the month of January, according to a press release.

One in 15 homes across the U.S. has elevated radon levels: With as many as 21,000 deaths each year, radon exposure is second only to smoking in causing lung cancer deaths in the United States, the release stated.

According to the release, offices, schools and government facilities should also be tested for this deadly carcinogen as well: Penalties and fines to business owners arising from complaints of indoor air quality violations within the workplace are becoming more and more common with heightened awareness.

During National Radon Action Month, the EPA along with the U.S. Surgeon General will ramp-up their efforts to educate the public about the dangers of radon and what can be done to minimize the health risk from long-term exposure, the release added.